Biomedical Science BSc(Hons): After you graduate

"I had always been interested in biology, but I wanted to do a degree that would enable me to focus on a medical-based career.  Biomedical Science answered my criteria by focusing on the human and medical side of biology.

"I applied to quite a few different institutions and chose Kingston because it was highly rated and, when I visited, there was a nice feeling at the interview. The students and staff were friendly and it's in a great area, with Hampton Court and Kew Gardens close by.

"On the course I found there was a good mix of people and I really liked that there was such a wide range of modules, giving you a grounding in many different areas. A highlight was being given the opportunity to do a research project outside the University. This enabled me to gain valuable experience working in a research lab.

"After graduation, helped by my research project, I got a research assistant's post in haematology (to do with blood) at St George's, University of London. From here, I moved to St Bartholomew's Hospital, this time working in research in oncology (to do with cancer) and I went on to combine this with a PhD in Medical Oncology and Clinical Pharmacology. 

"Biomedical Science gave me a good understanding of both haematology and oncology, which helped me secure both my first two roles, and provided me with the foundation for my PhD.

"In October 2003, I went on to join the Institute of Cancer Research. I now investigate novel compounds used to treat cancer. This means looking at the properties of a cancer and then creating a brand new drug to treat it. I enjoy discovering new things and the interaction with people that my work provides.

"I have found the most useful element of the Biomedical Science degree is that it is so wide-ranging. It covers everything from haematology to pharmacology and this, combined with the research project, which you can work on outside the University, enables you to keep your career options open. I feel it is a fantastic course.

"When you are deciding what to study it is useful to have a rough idea of what you would like to do career-wise.  But you don't need to be too specific – by doing a wide ranging course such as this one, a lot of doors are still left open to you."